2017.06.27.
KILLING THE DRAGON
European bee-eater (Merops apiaster) throws up and catch a dragonfly.
Even though, bee-eaters prefer insects with sting, they are able to catch any flying bugs in between 5-50mm bodysize.
It is an instinct-driven behavior, that they hit the prey many times to the
surface they perch. In this way they can avoid any sting-injury during
swallow.
So no matter, if the prey has a sting or not, they will do it anyway. Just like with the actual victim, a broad-bodied chaser (Libellula depressa) dragonfly.
Only about 10 miles from my residency… No need to travel far away for fantastic experience. Travel less, discover your backyard, reduce your ecological footprint!
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Many thanks!
